An hour away from Portland, Trillium Lake is enwreathed in trails ideal for the quiet sport.
Text and Images by Amanda Leigh Smith
On an early February day, four friends and I loaded up my truck and headed 60 miles east of Portland into the wilderness of Mount Hood. This signature of the Pacific Northwest is a prime destination for snowboarding and cross-country skiing, but we were seeking a more mellow winter activity that would be accessible and affordable: snowshoeing.
Trillium Lake is an ideal location to try out snowshoeing, I had learned, because the trail that wraps around it gains only about 230 feet in elevation, with mostly flat terrain, and it is easy to reach. Around five miles long, the loop can be done in its entirety or in part, as an out and back. It also links to trails that continue further into the wilderness.
Winter had been fairly mild, and on this particular day, the temperatures were warmer and the sky was overcast. On our way to the trailhead, we stopped for lunch in Sandy and rented snowshoes at Next Adventure, a local outdoor equipment store where you can pick up affordable gear your kit might be missing or rent items including poles, snow boots, and shovels. Then we stopped at Zig Zag Ranger Station to purchase the required Sno-Park parking permit and check road and snow conditions. Roads were clear, we were told, though we could expect snow that was hard and compacted.
When we arrived at Trillium Lake, we piled on wool base layers, warm jackets, and beanies and filled our backpacks with a few cold beers and some hot tea to enjoy once we reached our destination. Even though the trail was fairly busy, it didn’t feel crowded. After hiking for more than an hour through towering Douglas fir trees covered in sparkling snow and breathing in the crisp winter air, we made it to the lakeshore. Mount Hood peeked through the clouds above the stillness of the frozen lake. We explored the wetlands along the banks.
After trekking two miles back to the parking lot, we wanted to warm up and refuel, so we stopped in Zig Zag at Skyway Bar and Grill, which beckoned us with its festive outdoor lighting, warm fireplace, and eccentric decor. On weekend nights, the place can turn into a party with live music and karaoke, but when we stopped in, it was a quiet, cozy evening. The restaurant walls are decorated with old black-and-white photos of mountainous adventures from area locals of generations past. As we sipped our hot toddies, we reflected on our own adventure and the gratitude we felt for having access to a wonderland so close to the place we call home.
Tips for maximizing your snowshoeing experience:
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Know the hazards: Check the road conditions and have chains or traction tires. Be prepared for changing weather and the dangers of falling into a tree well.
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Review the trail map: Even on a beginner trail, dangerous winter conditions still exist. Always tell someone where you’re going before you head out into any wilderness area.
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Wear layers: Wool or synthetic moisture-wicking fibers are best. Avoid wearing cotton if possible and have a waterproof outer shell. Bring gloves, hats, and an extra pair of socks.
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Wear warm footwear: Snowshoes adjust to fit pretty much any type of hiking boot. Wear waterproof boots if possible, or wear gaiters for extra protection.
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Remember winter sun protection: Bring sunglasses and wear sunscreen even if it’s overcast.
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Bring poles: They help with balance and crossing uneven or sloped terrain.
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Use hand warmers and foot warmers: You can also put these next to your camera or phone to keep them working in cold conditions.
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Stay hydrated: Bring an insulated water bottle or a thermos with a hot beverage (or both).
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Bring a repair kit: Wrap a few layers of duct tape around your water bottle. It can come in handy if your shoe breaks.
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Bring snacks: Depending on the conditions, snowshoeing can be quite the aerobic workout.
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Bring a flashlight: Because it would suck to need one and not have it.